The bright, checkered blanket is gently spread out on the lush green grass. The trusty picnic basket is opened to showcase an assortment of cheeses, crackers, olives, tapenades and other artisan goodies that are patiently awaiting my palate.

A bottle of Paso Robles wine and two glasses complete the ensemble while creating a picture perfect setting. Oh! I can’t forget my dancing shoes- also known as my black, strappy summer sandals. This could only mean one thing: Paso Robles Concerts in the Park.

There is no place I’d rather be in the summertime. Each and every Friday night I pack a picnic dinner, lawn chairs and the ones I love for a relaxing evening under the stars in the Downtown Paso Robles square. The warm air, smells of delicious foods and the moonlight create an ambiance that is hard to top. The sound of music drifts through the crowd- rock, country, soul, jazz, swing or world fusion…Paso Robles Concerts in the Park has it all.

As the music fills the air, the worries of the past week seem to be miles away. Those worries are now replaced by dancing, laughter, positive energy and just plain fun! What a way to truly welcome the weekend!I have thoroughly enjoyed all that the summer concert series has had to offer thus far but I must say, I eagerly await all that is still on the horizon for July and August. In July, the local favorite, “Mighty Croon Dogs” will be followed by country act, “Steve Sturgis and Roadhouse”. My personal favorite, “Truth About Seafood” is rounding out the end of the month along with “Mariachi Alma de Jalisco”. That is just July! August brings with it a whole assortment of jams, fancy beats and good old fashion rock and roll.Grab your dancing shoes and picnic basket or have dinner at one of the fabulous restaurants in the Downtown Square while enjoying the our amazing local musicians and warm summer nights. I’ll see you there!

The schedule for August is:
August 5 Monte Mills Band – Western; Food by F. McLintock’s Saloon
August 12 Unfinished Business – Rock; Food by Level 4 Restaurant and Lounge
August 19 Royal Garden Ochestra – Swing; Food by Thomas Hill Organics
August 26 Incendio – World Fusion; Food by Chubby Chandlers Pizza